Exotic Light pulls off rasping 46-1 upset
In a shocking reversal of form, four-year-old bay filly Exotic Light defied 46-1 odds to claim a thrilling victory in the three-year-old and upward claiming ($750,000-$600,000) race on Saturday, October 26, 2024.
Owned and trained by Edward Stanberry and ridden by Roger Hewitt, Exotic Light dominated the 5 ½ furlong (1,100m) event. She crossed the finish line 2 ¾ lengths ahead of her more fancied rivals, stopping the clock at 1:10.0.
At the start, Rhosa The Warrior (Aaron Chatrie) led the pack, followed closely by Cappuccino (Dane Dawkins), Alexa’s Lodge (Youville Pinnock), and Storm A Come (Samantha Fletcher). Exotic Light trailed among the backmarkers.
Approaching the half-mile (800m) turn, Exotic Light remained at the back; however, nearing the homestretch, she gained momentum. Rounding the final bend, Exotic Light closed in on the leaders: Rhosa The Warrior, Alexa’s Lodge, and Loyal Action (Tevin Foster).
Inside the final furlong (200m), Exotic Light burst through the pack to snatch victory from Prince Marshall (Oneil Mullings) and Rhosa The Warrior at the wire.
— Ruddy Allen
